The helpline can get very busy. We answer as many calls as possible, but if you can't get through, please leave a message with your name and phone number. Unfortunately, we can't return calls to numbers that bar withheld or anonymous numbers.

If you contact us by email or online, we'll come back to you within 5 working days. If you'd like a speedier response, it may be quicker to phone us.

If your email is of a complex nature, medical or relating to benefits entitlement, for example, we'll do our best to answer it fully. However, it's sometimes easier to speak to you on the phone to make sure we have all the details we need to help you.

Language support offered:

We offer advice to people in the UK whose first language is not English, using a telephone interpreting service covering over 170 languages.

You can call the helpline directly and request an interpreter.

Professionals can also contact us, with their client's consent, and arrange for a helpline adviser and interpreter to call the client.